No one is turned away from the YMCA of Greater St. Louis because of an inability to pay. Financial scholarships are available at all branches thanks to the generous support of those who give to our annual YMCA Partner Campaign. Applications for assistance are available at any branch service center or available to download below.

Once completed, bring the application and a copy of your 2009 tax return to the Carondelet Family YMCA.

I've made several posts on the Carondelt Rec Plex on this site. No other topic has received more page loads, comments and emails than this one. Most are negative comments complaining about how the city paid for this, and then allowed the YMCA to run it at a premium membership fee. True, it's not cheap, and it's a big family/personal decision to make room in your budget for this luxury. It should not be free. Can you imagine that cluster mess? It's already filled to capacity at peak hours.

The YMCA is able to run this facility like a business. It is kept very clean, the staff is attentive and kind, they tolerate very little rude/obnoxious behavior. This place is very diverse with people of all economic, age and racial backgrounds. Just visit, I think you'll agree with me. Do you think the city would be able to maintain this place at this high level? I'm a city booster, almost to a fault. But if there is one thing that needs an over haul, it's the nepotism and incompetance that exists with many city and SLPS employees. Not all, but many. We have plenty of horror stories regarding the service, demeanor, racist behaviors and ineptitude of so many public school employees it's ridiculous. The fact that they get away with this is beyond me. I wouldn't go to the Carondelet rec plex if it was run/staffed like that.

And just to reiterate, anyone is available for financial assistance if you qualify. If you don't qualify, you should count your blessings that you have the financial means to be independent of help and pay your way.

I can't wait for the outdoor pool area to open. The grounds are starting to really look beautiful as well.